INFORMATION FOR...

Shadow Copy File Restores on File & Web Servers

Ever accidentally delete or overwrite a file? Windows users can now recover previous versions of their files on the file server with a click of a mouse button.

What is Shadow Copy

The College of Education file server (files.ed.uiuc.edu) and web servers (www.ed.uiuc.edu) now support a convenient end-user friendly feature called Shadow Copy. The Shadow Copy feature gives users the ability to recover, on their own, files they accidentally erase or overwrite. “Shadow copies” of files are made at least twice a day, allowing you to select the right version for you.

Note: The Shadow Copy feature is already built-in to Professional versions of Windows starting from XP and on, but not in earlier versions of Windows or other non-Professional editions. To request installation of the Shadow Copy client for these versions of Windows (XP Home, 2000, ME, or earlier), please call User Services at 244-6053.

How to Use It

With the Microsoft Shadow Copy client installed, Windows users can restore a file by -

On a file or folder on the file server, right click on it to bring up a menu
Select Properties on the menu
Select the Previous Version tab in the Properties window
If available, select the desired point in time to restore.
Finally, click on the appropriate restoration action (View, Copy, or Restore)

Note: If recent point in time copies are unavailable in the Previous Version tab for a specific file, try looking at its parent folder's Previous Version tab with the View action to copy that file from that available point in time.

Shadow Copy Schedule

The Shadow Copy service creates at least two point in time copies daily (7AM and 12PM) on the College file and web servers. More point in time copies may be implemented in the future depending on available disk space and end user feedback.

Where to Get Help

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free stop by User Services in room 1, contact them at 244-6053 or via email.

For Additional Information

Shadow Copy Client Download for Windows XP with links for previous Windows versions
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2003/downloads/shadowcopyclient.mspx

End User Friendly How-to Guide for Using the Shadow Copy Client
http://www.petri.co.il/how_to_use_the_shadow_copy_client.htm

User Services
http://www.ed.uiuc.edu/cio/userservices